What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own joint tissues, causing inflammation, pain, and joint damage. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA affects joints symmetrically and can also affect other organs. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, we provide comprehensive RA management.
Symptoms
- Painful, swollen, and warm joints – especially small joints of hands and feet
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 1 hour
- Symmetrical joint involvement
- Fatigue and general malaise
- Low-grade fever
- Rheumatoid nodules (firm lumps under the skin)
Diagnosis
Blood tests: Rheumatoid factor (RF), Anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, CRP. X-rays show joint erosions in established disease. MRI for early joint damage detection.
Treatment
Medications (DMARDs)
- Methotrexate: First-line DMARD – modifies disease progression
- Hydroxychloroquine and Sulfasalazine: Mild RA
- Leflunomide: Alternative DMARD
- Biological DMARDs: TNF inhibitors (etanercept, adalimumab) for refractory cases
Pain Management
- NSAIDs and corticosteroids for flares
- Joint injections for specific inflamed joints
Physiotherapy
Crucial to maintain joint function and muscle strength. Joint protection techniques, hydrotherapy, and occupational therapy.
Surgery
For severely damaged joints: synovectomy, tendon repair, joint replacement.
Expert RA management at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
